Although temperatures may have dropped, winter doesn’t need to be the unhealthiest time of the year for you and your family. Whilst staying healthy during this cold season isn’t an easy task, there are tricks you can include in your lifestyle to ensure that your wellbeing stays protected this winter.
The winter season can be overwhelmingly busy and exciting, but falling temperatures, shorter days, endless commitments and the fact that everyone around you seems to be catching a cold or flu, can make you feel as if your energy levels are running low.
You may feel that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is quite a challenge, however, we have listed several tips that are easy to follow. Our advice will undoubtedly help you develop rituals that will keep you happy, healthy and energised for the day ahead.
Keep your body moving
One of the most important routines that you can take part in during the winter season is to maintain an active lifestyle on a day-to-day basis. Whilst winter brings terrible weather, there are the odd moments where you can step outside for some fresh air.
If you can go outdoors, take a stroll and go jogging or cycling. Fun alternatives like ice-skating will also do the trick, as cardio-based activities are great for keeping the body warm raise your energy levels.
If the weather doesn’t permit you to step outdoors, then partake in some indoor activities that will keep you moving. Whether it is yoga or exercises using kettlebells, your energy levels and immune system will significantly improve, thereby preventing an annoying cold or flu.
Get cosy
During winter we seem to yearn for comfort, and understandably so, as maintaining a warm and comfortable environment during the colder months becomes a necessity.
From placing candles around the room to warming the lights, comfort can be easily achieved. If you need to feel warmer on colder nights, then we suggest that you invest in electric heated blankets.
Owning a modern electric blanket will be a wise investment for winter, as they are made from high-quality materials, are safe to use and feature several heat settings to ensure that you stay warm throughout the night — with a variety of different styles and sizes, you will find one that suits you perfectly.
Improving your diet
Over the winter period, our bodies need more food to maintain warmth and a healthy immune system. Why not start your day with a cup of tea with honey, lemon and ginger to warm you up and prepare you for the day ahead?
Prepare casseroles and stews that will help boost your immune system and result in higher energy levels. When preparing these hearty yet healthy meals, ensure that you include a variety of vegetables like carrots, parsnips, swedes and turnips, as they can be highly nutritious as well as delicious.
Similarly, cook with spices as they are proven to improve your immune functions. Spices, such as turmeric, have been traditionally used in Chinese and Indian medicine as it acts as a powerful antioxidant and can help combat several conditions including inflammation and heart disease.
Take time for teas
The importance of tea seems to be occasionally overlooked, yet it has several health benefits that you can take advantage of this winter.
Black and green tea are heavily rich in plant chemicals, which have several antioxidant effects. Those who drink tea regularly have been known to have healthier blood vessels and a lower risk of heart disease compared to those who don’t.
If you combine drinking tea with healthy, hearty meals, then you can rest assured that you will feel healthier this winter.
Perfect your bedtime routine
An obvious one perhaps, but sleeping a minimum of eight hours a night can truly improve your energy levels, immune system and mindset.
A lack of sleep, especially during the winter season, can drastically increase the risk of contracting a cold or flu. To prevent this, simply have some self-compassion and practice going to bed earlier so that you can properly rest and wake up with a clear mind.
We hope that these tips can improve your state-of-mind and wellness this winter so that you can enjoy every moment of the season.
